A two-vehicle crash on Milford-Harrington Highway that claimed the lives of two Virginia residents on June 26 has now resulted in a third fatality, according to the Delaware State Police.
Police announced this week that 36-year-old Eric Lynch of Harrington died July 1 from injuries he sustained in the crash. Authorities also identified the two occupants of the Nissan Rogue as Mark Yancey, 60, and his wife, Jana Yancey, 62, of Yorktown, Virginia. Their identities were confirmed with assistance from the Delaware Division of Forensic Science.
The crash occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. June 26 on Milford-Harrington Highway near the intersection with Church Hill Road.
According to investigators, Lynch was driving a Ford Mustang westbound on Milford-Harrington Highway at a high rate of speed as he approached Church Hill Road. At the same time, the Nissan Rogue had just turned right onto Milford-Harrington Highway from Church Hill Road and was also traveling westbound.
For reasons that remain under investigation, the front of the Mustang struck the rear of the Nissan. The impact caused the SUV to rotate, overturn into a utility pole and become engulfed in flames.
Mark and Jana Yancey were pronounced dead at the scene. Lynch was transported to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries before succumbing to those injuries several days later.
The roadway remained closed for approximately four hours while members of the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit investigated and cleared the scene.
The deaths of Mark and Jana Yancey have left a profound impact on family, friends and their Virginia community.
Mark Yancey was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and proudly served in the United States Air Force as a jet mechanic before spending more than three decades working for Procter & Gamble, ClientLogic in Dover and Printpack in Williamsburg, Virginia. Family members described him as a devoted husband, father and grandfather whose greatest joy came from spending time with his family.
An avid sports enthusiast, Mark coached youth basketball and baseball for many years before serving as an assistant basketball coach alongside his son, Mark Yancey Jr., at the high school level. According to his family, he was known for his ability to connect with others, his infectious laugh and his genuine interest in people, never meeting a stranger.
Jana Yancey, born in Dover, attended Delaware State College, now Delaware State University, where she formed lifelong friendships. She spent 34 years working in human resources for Walmart and was actively involved in community service, serving on the boards of the Natasha House and the York Foundation for Public Education.
Family members said Jana found her greatest happiness in spending time with her grandchildren while also enjoying shopping, gathering with friends and volunteering in her community. They remembered her for her warmth, generosity and ability to make everyone around her feel welcome.
At press time, Lynch’s obituary was not available.
The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dash camera or surveillance video is asked to contact Master Cpl. J. Lane at 302-698-8457. Information may also be submitted through the Delaware State Police Facebook page or anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
My prayers go out to all the families involved. God does not reveal the time or the hour of our last days. May they rest in eternal peace.